A study on attitudes and perceptions of marriage among young higher educated single Singaporeans

Author

Tan, Zhuan Liang

Date of Issue

2016-03-12

School

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Abstract

In a contemporary Singapore context, there have been growing trends towards delayed marriages and singlehood among higher educated Singaporeans and young adults respectively. Against the backdrop of an ageing population and ultra-low fertility levels in Singapore, this paper seeks to analyse the attitudes and perceptions of marriage among young single Singaporeans with university qualifications by contextualizing Beck and Beck-Gernsheim’s individualization thesis. Utilizing semi-structured interviews, 9 respondents were asked for their perceptions towards marriage, their intentions to marry and the reasons for delaying marriage and remaining single. Based on key findings and implications, it is ascertained that individualization has impacted in shaping marriage perceptions and attitudes. Also, it was observed that all respondents were keen on marriage but yet delay their marriage aspirations due to their work circumstances. Lastly, this research implies that prevalence of delayed marriages and singlehood are poised to remain.